Structural Bolts Installation

AS4100-1998

WORKING DEFINITIONS
TORQUE : The energy taken to twist the nut up
the thread of the bolt (Measured in Nm).

TENSION : The force generated in the bolt to

clamp the steel plies together (Measured in kN).

Torque is not used as a measure for the

tensioning of structural bolting. Bolt torque values
are not shown in AS4100.
Mathematically,
torque can be defined as

SNUG TIGHT

AS1252 STRUCTURAL ASSEMBLIES

CLASS 8.8 - MINIMUM BOLT TENSION
Nominal

Pitch

Size

Minimum Bolt Tension

Kn

M16

2.0

95

M20

2.5

145

M24

3.0

210

M30

3.5

335

M36

4.0

490

Note: the minimum bolt tension shown (AS4100-1998)

is approximately equivalent to the minimum proof loads
shown in AS1252-1996.

Prior to final tensioning of structural bolts the steel plies must be brought into effective contact. This is referred to as Snug-tight. i.e. no gap between the steel plates. Snug-tight can be achieved by a few impacts
of an impact wrench or by the full effort of a person using a standard podger spanner. Correct bolt tension is required to ensure effective load transmission on the joint. Effective load transmission will not be
achieved if a gap between the steel plates remains, which can occur if there is deformation from welding.

TIGHTENING PATTERN
Snug-tightening and final tensioning of the bolts in a connection shall proceed from the stiffest part of the connection towards the free edges. An example interpretation of
a systematic pattern for tightening is provided:

DELIVERY STORAGE & HANDLING

Structural bolt assemblies supplied to AS1252-1996 must be stored in the manufacturers carton protected
from wet weather. White rusting on the galvanised surface, dust and removal of the water soluble lubricant on the nut can severely effect installation and correct tensioning.

RE-USE OF STRUCTURAL ASSEMBLIES

Under no circumstances can a structural bolt which has been fully tensioned (i.e. the minimum values
shown above) be re-used. If a bolt has been tensioned and then has to be removed it must be marked
accordingly and destroyed.
v.1.3

Quality Fasteners Since 1935 March 2007